Acquiring Knowledge Without Faith: Challenges and Certainties

Can one possess knowledge or beliefs without relying on faith? This question has been widely debated, especially as science continues to shape our understanding of the world. In this article, we explore the relationship between knowledge, beliefs, and faith, highlighting the critical role of critical thinking, experimentation, and empirical evidence in attaining reliable knowledge.

Knowledge and Faith: A Diminishing Relationship

As science has expanded its horizons, the role of faith in determining what is accepted as knowledge has diminished. Faith can be considered as a form of 'light' knowledge, which does not require rigorous critical thinking, experimentation, skepticism, or extensive effort. On the other hand, true knowledge undergoes constant scrutiny, testing, and updating.

Some argue that while faith can be a guiding principle, knowledge is dynamic and evolves through continuous investigation. This perspective suggests that faith can serve as a starting point, but it must be supplemented by empirical evidence and critical evaluation to transcend the limitations of unproven beliefs.

Personal Faith and Human Limitations

Matthew 17:20 in the Bible presents an interesting case study. The disciples returned from the Mount of Transfiguration claiming to have reached a peak in their faith, yet Jesus emphasized their lack of faith, stating, "If you have faith and do not doubt, not even a mountain moves from its place." This passage highlights the challenges in maintaining unwavering faith, especially when faced with the uncertainties of the natural world.

Christ's sacrifice and the concepts in John 19:30 and Romans 3:23, 6:23, introduce a unique form of faith based on redemption and divine intervention. Yet, even these beliefs are grounded in the broader context of faith in a transcendent reality beyond human comprehension.

Assumptions and the Scientific Method

Acquiring knowledge without making assumptions is virtually impossible. Every piece of knowledge is built upon underlying assumptions, whether they are based on observations, experiences, or traditional knowledge. It is crucial to identify these assumptions and regularly reevaluate them to ensure the integrity of the knowledge.

Scientists, for instance, make foundational assumptions about the nature of reality and the reliability of data. These assumptions are constantly tested and refined through rigorous experimentation, observation, and peer review. Through this process, new knowledge is acquired and existing knowledge is validated or revised.

The Role of Assumptions in Art and Religion

Great artists, whether painters, sculptors, musicians, or writers, challenge their audiences to question and re-examine their assumptions. Through their work, they encourage introspection and re-evaluation, leading to personal growth and societal advancement.

Similarly, the founders of the world's great religions introduce new principles and practices that often challenge established beliefs. As Baha'u'llah has noted, these messengers or manifestations of God are instrumental in renewing religion and prompting humanity to re-examine long-held assumptions, ultimately leading to societal progress.

The Necessity of Assumptions in Knowledge Acquisition

Even in core mathematics, foundational assumptions known as axioms serve as the basis for theorems and subsequent mathematical theory. These axioms are often derived from observations, experiences, and prior knowledge. The validity of the conclusions drawn from these axioms is confirmed through repeated observations and practical applications, which validate the accuracy or practicality of the knowledge developed.

While faith plays a role in providing a framework for belief, true knowledge is grounded in empirical evidence and logical reasoning. The interplay between assumptions and validation is crucial for the acquisition and refinement of knowledge in various fields.

Ultimately, the pursuit of knowledge involves making and re-evaluating assumptions. By carefully identifying and examining these assumptions, we can build a more robust and accurate understanding of the world around us.

Key Points:

Knowledge is constantly evolving through empirical evidence and critical evaluation. Assumptions are inherent in the process of acquiring knowledge, but they must be continually re-examined. The scientific method and artistic expression challenge and re-evaluate deeply held beliefs. Founders of religions have historically prompted humanity to re-examine and advance through new principles and practices.

Keywords: knowledge, faith, beliefs, science, assumptions